Global aerospace major Airbus is set to expand its footprint in India with the establishment of a Research and Development Centre of Excellence at Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya in Vadodara, Gujarat. The centre will strengthen India’s position as a hub for advanced aerospace engineering and innovation.
Airbus representatives confirmed the company’s increasing reliance on India’s supply chain, sourcing over $1 billion worth of components annually from more than 100 Indian suppliers. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s growing contribution to the global aerospace ecosystem.
At present, Airbus employs around 3,600 people in India, including over 1,500 IT professionals who support its worldwide operations. The company also runs a major Digital Centre in Bengaluru, considered the backbone of its digital transformation efforts and its second-largest such facility after Toulouse.
The new R&D centre is expected to play a critical role in advancing design, research, and innovation in aerospace technologies. It will also foster collaboration with academic institutions and industry partners, further aligning with India’s Make in India vision and push towards self-reliance in high-technology sectors.
Industry experts view this as a significant step in strengthening India’s role in the global aerospace supply chain. By expanding sourcing and investing in research capabilities, Airbus is not only boosting its operations in the country but also creating opportunities for Indian suppliers and engineering talent.
